Diagnosis and Differential Diagnosis of Breast Calcifications

1 Historical Review, Critical Analysis of the Literature, Statement of Problem and Goals.- 2 Technical Prerequisites for the Evaluation of Breast Microcalcifications.- 2.1 Factors Influencing Visualization of Image Details.- 2.2 Image Optimization and Dose Reduction.- 2.3 Microfocal Spot Magnification Mammography.- 2.4 Future Developments.- 3 Pathogenesis, Pathophysiology, and Composition of Breast Calcifications.- 4 Calcifications Within the Lobular and Ductal System of the Breast.- 4.1 Normal Anatomy and Radiographic Anatomy.- 4.2 Pathology and Radiography of Calcifications of Lobular Origin.- 4.3 Pathology and Radiography of Calcifications of Intraductal Origin.- 5 Calcifications in Intra-and Pericanalicular Fibroadenomas.- 6 Calcifications Outside the Lobular and Ductal System of the Breast.- 6.1 Calcifications in Fat Necrosis of Varying Etiology.- 6.2 Malignant Mixed Tumors with Osseous Metaplasia.- 6.3 Calcified Arteries and Thrombi.- 6.4 Calcifications in Parasitic Diseases.- 6.5 Calcified Foreign Bodies.- 6.6 Calcified Sebaceous Glands.- 6.7 Scattered Calcifications and Ossifications of the Stroma, Subcutaneous Tissue, and Skin.- 6.8 Calcifications in the Axillary Lymph Nodes.- 6.9 Artifacts That Mimic Calcifications.- 7 Differential Diagnosis of Microcalcifications.- 7.1 Checklist.- 7.2 Questions and Answers.- 8 Clinically Occult, Mammographically Suspicious Microcalcification Clusters: Pre-, Intra-, and Postoperative Measures.- 8.1 Preoperative Localization.- 8.2 Intraoperative Specimen Radiography.- 8.3 Postoperative Study.- References.